Our programs

Martha's Vineyard Regional High School does not have a language requirement . That said, all four-year state universities in Massachusetts require a minimum of two consecutive years of high school world language study or the equivalent for entrance, and many colleges and universities nationwide have similar entrance requirements.

Spanish

The Spanish program offers a five-year course of study with focus on the four language skills of speaking, listening, reading, and writing, and an emphasis on authentic language and cultural understanding. The principal objective of the program is to lead students to proficiency, motivating them to use language in practical and communicative ways and in a variety of contexts. Courses are designed to increase the students’ awareness, understanding and appreciation of the diverse cultures of Spanish-speaking countries. When possible, the department offers a popular, fee based, bi-yearly homestay program to a Spanish-speaking country. Students who choose to participate in this exchange experience and benefit from a total linguistic and cultural immersion. Courses offered: Spanish 1, Spanish 2 College 1, Spanish 2 Honors, Spanish 3 College 1, Spanish 3 Honors, Spanish 4 College, Spanish 4 Honors, &  AP Spanish.

ASL

The ASL program provides a solid foundation of ASL production and comprehension. Grammar is presented by units with careful attention to provide context for learning. There are 6 units: Introducing Oneself; Exchanging Personal Information; Discussing Living Situations; Talking about Family; Discussing Activities; and ASL storytelling. Students learn conversational strategies to help sustain conversation in ASL. Interaction provides opportunities for students to practice what they've learned. Students gain a deeper understanding of Deaf Culture and education in the Deaf community. A variety of materials will be used to broaden and then deepen their understanding in the Deaf World and ASL.

Portuguese

The Portuguese program offers a four-year course of study with focus on the four language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing, with emphasis on authentic language and cultural understanding. The principal objective of the program is to lead students to proficiency, motivating them to use language in practical and communicative ways in a variety of contexts. Courses are designed to increase the students’ awareness, knowledge and appreciation of the diverse cultures of Portuguese- speaking countries. Courses offered: Portuguese 1 College A, Portuguese 2 College A,  and Portuguese 3 College A.  For the fourth year of study, students have the option of the Heritage Portuguese 2 course.

Heritage Portuguese

The Portuguese Heritage Program aims to promote the learning of the Brazilian language and culture through an integrated approach that combines linguistic, literary, and sociocultural aspects. The instruction focuses on developing reading and writing skills, using Brazilian literature as a foundation to explore the country’s cultural and social richness while enhancing students' language proficiency. As heritage learners, the work on oral expression is strategically designed through activities such as presentations, which help students organize and structure their ideas clearly and cohesively. Additionally, the dialogic methodology encourages active participation in a collaborative environment where learning occurs through idea exchanges and reflections. This approach not only strengthens students’ command of the Portuguese language but also fosters their engagement with cultural roots, promoting a sense of identity and belonging.

Latin

The Classical Studies Department offers a three-year course of study in Latin. The principal objectives of the courses on all levels are to read Latin well, to develop an understanding of the nature of language, and to discover the relationship between the Roman way of life and our own.

Courses offered: Latin 1 College A, Latin 2 College/Honors, and Latin 3 College/Honors,